Cesare Prandelli praised Francesco Totti as “an exemplary professional,” but also feels Italian football made the right choice investing in youth.

CesarePrandelli praised Francesco Totti as “an exemplary professional,” but also feels Italian football made the right choice investing in youth.

The Azzurri Coach was speaking at an event in Pisa today and commented on Totti scoring his 221stSerie A goal.

“I had the good fortune to train him for a few months and that was an honour. He is an exemplary professional and is breaking all records at Roma, regardless of age,” said Prandelli.

“Totti is a real champion and always manages to achieve his objectives. He’s also a great man.”

While Totti is a veteran figure, the economic crisis has seen Serie A clubs focus more on young home-grown talent.

“We did well to choose the path of renovation for Italy and the explosion of so many young talents confirms that.

“The performances of Mattia De Sciglio, Lorenzo Insigne, Mattia Destro and Stephan El Shaarawy are clear for all to see. Now they must continue to work like this in order to grow definitively, then at the end you’ll see they have the space they deserve.”